HAMPSHIRE County Council's annual Civic Service will be held in Winchester Cathedral this Sunday, June 17.

The chairman, leader and members of the county council will join the Lord-Lieutenant of Hampshire and High Sheriff of Hampshire for the special event, which will begin at 11am. The preacher will be The Very Reverend Colin Slee, Dean of Southwark.

More than 300 people are expected to attend, including representatives of local businesses, voluntary groups, youth organisations, armed services and schools as well as county council members and staff.

The chairman of Hampshire County Council, Cllr Mrs Patricia Devereux, said: "I am looking forward to attending my first Civic Service as chairman of the county council. The theme this year, of service, acknowledges and celebrates the hours of work carried out by citizens of Hampshire on behalf of the local or wider community, without whom many services would not be available to our residents."

The leader of Hampshire County Council, Councillor Ken Thornber, said: "This year's Civic Service promises to be a memorable event in a magnificent setting. I hope that everyone who attends the service enjoys the occasion. The event is also an opportunity for members of the county council to re-dedicate themselves to serve the people of Hampshire."

There are still some tickets left for the Civic Service, and anyone wishing to attend should be at the Cathedral by 10:30am.